Kennith Ray (Kenny) Wells, born December 15th, 1947 in Poplarville, MS, died peacefully surrounded by his family and friends on January 26, 2014, after a brief illness. Kenny was preceded in death by his wife, Ina Whitfield Wells, and his father, Clyde Wells. His mother, Doris Wells, sister, Barbara Burge, and brother, Ricky Wells, all reside in Poplarville. Kenny and Ina have two children, Benjie Wells of Poplarville and Nicole Oeser of Nashville, TN. “Jon,” as he was known by his closest family, loved and was so loved by his five grandchildren Christopher Wells, Sarah Anne Wells, Anne Catherine Oeser, Baleigh Wells and Henry Oeser.
In addition to his immediate family, Kenny was very close to his sisters-in-law, Janie Whitfield Stafford and Christine Whitfield Askins, as well as his brother-in-law, Winston Whitfield, all of Poplarville. Kenny always included them and their children in his family and welcomed them into his home. Nieces and nephews include Jeff, Jim and Jon Askins, Millicent and Suzanne Stafford, Kay Thompson, Chad Burge and Dusty Wells. Kenny spent much time with his grandnieces and nephews as he did with his own grandchildren. Gracie, Nolan, Elizabeth, Wyatt, Mason and Natalie all looked up to Jon to teach them to fish in the family ponds, ride them around on his Gator and to help take care of all the animals.
Kenny was a lifelong resident of Poplarville attending Poplarville High School, where he was a standout baseball player, and Pearl River Junior College where he trained as a welder.
Kenny went to work as an apprentice welder and fitter through the Steamfitter and Welders Local 60 in New Orleans where he was recognised as an excellent fitter and dedicated worker; he quickly made foreman and then superintendent with James F. O’Neill Construction Company. With the acquisition of O’Neill by Boh Brothers Construction Company of New Orleans, Kenny was eventually made General Superintendent of Boh’s Mobile, Alabama, operations. Kenny retired in 2008 after a long and successful career in construction management with Boh.
Kenny also served with the Mississippi Army National Guard’s 1065th Transportation Company(-), achieving the rank of Staff Sargent and culminating in service as a section leader. He was recognized for his service during Hurricane Camille as well as during the explosion and fire response at the Mississippi Army Ammunition plant.
He was an avid fisherman, participating in numerous Bass tournaments, and shared the love of fishing with friends and family whenever he could.
Kenny was a dedicated family man who worked long hours and days to provide for the love of his life, the late Ina Whitfield Wells, and two children, Benjie and Nicole. He took the time to coach little league baseball and pee wee football teams giving back not only to his children but to other children in his community.
Kenny will be sorely missed by his family and community. The family asks for your prayers during this difficult time.
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